Self-taught farmers confidently raising chickens, ducks, geese, and pigs. Our focus is on practices that are environmentally harmonious and respectful to our livestock. We appreciate the beauty around us, clean eating, fermenting, and responsibly utilizing the bounty of the land. If you like thinking for yourself, continuous learning, and connecting with the homesteader lifestyle, check us out.
The universe – or Mother Nature? – has an incredible way of snapping us out of our own self-absorbed reveries and grounding us in the present. Today, as I finished the morning chores and was hosing off my boots, I looked down and noticed that there was some kind of pod nestled in the grass. It was the same color as the grass, but the oblong shape drew my attention. I needed to find out more about this strange object.
Continue reading “Daily Wonder: A Perplexing Pod”
As summer draws – reluctantly, it seems – to a close, butterflies and moths are still frolicking among the wildflowers in the pastures. Though I’ll be happy to see the heat and humidity go as we transition to fall, I’ll miss these lovely, carefree creatures. Come along with me as we take a closer look at some of these beautiful specimens!
Continue reading “Around The Farm: Late-Summer Lepidoptera”
Butterflies may get most of the adulation, but I maintain that moths are marvel-worthy, too. We have so many different kinds around the farm that it’s mind-boggling; here are just a few that showcase the incredible camouflage skills that moths possess.
Continue reading “Around The Farm: The Mimicry Of Moths”
With Autumn upon us, flowers like Queen Anne’s Lace have mostly bloomed and gone to seed around here. While the goldenrod is still going strong, another “weed” is alive with insects seeking nectar. It’s so popular, in fact, that the bushes buzz with the sound of the industrious creatures.
Continue reading “Around The Farm: Busy Bees And Working Wasps”
Insect life is fascinating. Our property teems with flying, jumping, running, inching, and digging insects and bugs. Recently, a few stealthy specimens revealed themselves – just long enough for me to get a quick pic before they made themselves scarce (as they do).
Continue reading “Around The Farm: Cool Camouflaged Critters”
A caterpillar has chosen a spot on the porch’s siding for its rebirth, and I couldn’t be more pleased; I may actually have a chance to see what this fantastic creature (doesn’t it look like it belongs in the sea, rather than on land?) metamorphoses into. A moth? A butterfly? I hope I’ll find out!
Continue reading “Haiku: Ready For Change”